Homemade Vegan Nutella – sweetydreamz

This Homemade Vegan Nutella is a smooth, deeply chocolatey hazelnut spread made entirely from simple, natural ingredients. By roasting hazelnuts and blending them into a silky butter, the recipe builds flavor and texture without dairy or refined additives. The result is a rich, spoonable spread that’s perfect for breakfasts, desserts, or straight-from-the-jar enjoyment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pure, Simple Ingredients – Made with real hazelnuts, cocoa, and maple syrup—no additives or preservatives.
Authentic Hazelnut Flavor – Roasting the nuts unlocks deep, aromatic notes similar to classic Italian spreads.
Ultra-Creamy Texture – Proper blending technique creates a smooth, glossy consistency.
Naturally Vegan & Dairy-Free – Completely plant-based without sacrificing richness.
Versatile Uses – Works as a spread, drizzle, filling, or dessert component.
Customizable Sweetness – Easily adjusted to suit your preferred chocolate-to-sweet ratio.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Hazelnut Chocolate Spread Base

2 cups raw hazelnuts – Form the foundation, providing richness, body, and signature nutty flavor.
⅓ cup cocoa powder – Adds deep chocolate intensity and structure.
⅓ cup maple syrup – Sweetens naturally while keeping the spread fluid.
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted – Enhances creaminess and improves spreadability.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the chocolate and nut flavors.
¼ teaspoon sea salt – Balances sweetness and sharpens cocoa notes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Roast the Hazelnuts – Roast hazelnuts at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden and fragrant, shaking the pan halfway through.
Remove Skins – Let nuts cool briefly, then rub in a clean kitchen towel to remove most of the skins for a smoother spread.
Blend into Nut Butter – Process hazelnuts for 8–10 minutes, scraping down sides as they transition from crumbs to smooth butter.
Add Flavorings – Blend in cocoa powder, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla, and salt until glossy and fully emulsified.
Adjust & Store – Taste and adjust sweetness or cocoa depth, then transfer to a jar and cool slightly before storing.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Roasting Is Essential – Freshly roasted hazelnuts deliver superior flavor and smoother blending.
Blending Patience – Nut butter forms gradually; stopping too early results in grainy texture.
Equipment Matters – A high-powered processor or blender ensures optimal smoothness.
Texture Control – Add coconut oil sparingly if your spread seems too thick.
Natural Separation – Stir before using if oil separates during storage.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings (approximately 2 tablespoons per serving)
Calories: ~190–210 per serving (estimated; varies by ingredients)

Perfect Pairings

Warm Toast or Sourdough – Highlights the nutty depth of the spread.
Pancakes or Waffles – Melts beautifully for a luxurious topping.
Oatmeal or Porridge – Adds richness and natural sweetness.
Fresh Strawberries or Bananas – Provides contrast and freshness.

Ideal Occasions

Elevated Breakfasts – A wholesome upgrade to store-bought spreads.
Plant-Based Desserts – Perfect for vegan baking and fillings.
Homemade Gifts – Beautiful when jarred and shared.
Everyday Indulgence – A spoonable treat without dairy or additives.

Storage & Serving Tips

Refrigerated Storage – Keep in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks.
Room Temperature Use – Safe for 3–4 days if your kitchen is cool.
Softening Tip – Let sit at room temperature 15–20 minutes before serving.
Stir Before Use – Natural oils may separate over time.

Creative Variations to Try

Extra Dark Chocolate – Add more cocoa powder for a bolder profile.
Espresso Hazelnut Spread – Blend in instant espresso powder.
Sugar-Free Option – Use a low-glycemic liquid sweetener.
Nut-Free Version – Substitute roasted sunflower seeds for a different but creamy spread.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Grainy Texture – Continue blending; nut butter smooths with time.
Too Thick After Chilling – Warm slightly or stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil.
Too Bitter – Add maple syrup in small increments.
Overheating Blender – Pause frequently to protect the motor and improve texture.

Why This Recipe Works

Roasting hazelnuts releases their natural oils and deepens flavor, making it possible to create a smooth butter without additives. Continuous blending emulsifies fats and solids, while cocoa powder provides chocolate structure and bitterness. Coconut oil stabilizes texture, keeping the spread creamy yet spoonable. Compared to commercial versions, this recipe delivers similar indulgence with fewer ingredients and a more controlled calorie profile.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Vegan Nutella proves that classic spreads can be recreated with clean, thoughtful ingredients and proper technique. It’s rich, versatile, and deeply satisfying, while remaining dairy-free and naturally sweetened. Whether used as a breakfast staple or a dessert accent, it offers a lighter, more transparent alternative to store-bought chocolate spreads without sacrificing flavor.